The vegetative stage of cannabis growth is a crucial period during which the plant develops its structure and lays the foundation for its flowering phase. Understanding the different stages of vegetative growth can help growers ensure that their plants are getting the proper care and nutrition they need to thrive.
This article offers a detailed guide to the vegetative, or “veg,” stages of cannabis, from the initial transition from seedling to the preparations for flowering.
Week 1: The Germination Stage
During the first week of vegetative growth, cannabis seeds will begin to germinate, or sprout. At this stage, the seeds will need moisture and a warm environment to start growing. Once the seeds sprout, they will produce a pair of small, round leaves called cotyledons.
Week 2-3: The Seedling Stage
As the seedlings grow, they will develop their first set of true leaves, which will have a more defined shape and size than the cotyledons. At this stage, the plants will also start to grow taller and develop their stem and branches. It’s important to provide seedlings with plenty of light during this stage, as they will be very sensitive to light intensity and duration.
Week 4-6: The Vegetative Stage
As the plants continue to grow, they will enter the vegetative stage, which is marked by rapid growth and development. During this time, the plants will produce more leaves and branches, and they will start to grow taller and wider. It’s important to provide the plants with plenty of light and nutrients during this stage to support their growth.
Week 7-8: The Pre-Flowering Stage
As the plants approach the end of the vegetative stage, they will start to enter the pre-flowering stage. At this point, the plants will start to slow down their growth and focus on preparing for the flowering stage. They may start to develop calyxes, which are the structures that will eventually produce the flowers.
Week 9+: The Flowering Stage
Once the plants have entered the flowering stage, they will start to produce flowers, or buds. The flowers will contain the plant’s trichomes, which are the resin-secreting structures that contain the plant’s psychoactive compounds. As the flowers mature, they will start to produce more trichomes and become denser and more potent.
Understanding the different stages of vegetative growth can help growers ensure that their cannabis plants are getting the proper care and nutrition they need to thrive. By providing the plants with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients, growers can help their plants reach their full potential and produce high-quality buds.
Important Factors During The Veg Stage
Nutrients are very important during the vegetative period, to learn what nutrients your plant needs and how to provide them check out our vegetative nutrients guide.
You should also learn about what color spectrum your cannabis plant flourishes under, for more information on this subject check out our how color spectrum’s effect your cannabis plant article.
Another important factor that you must control during the vegetative stage is the temperature and humidity of your grow room. You should keep the temperature at a steady level somewhere within the range of 72-85 degrees Fahrenheit, 78 is ideal, however anything within this range will be fine for your plant.
You might be worried about the temperature of your grow room at night when the lights are off, don’t worry though your plants will be fine as long as it doesn’t go below 60 degrees Fahrenheit during this period. It should also be noted that you need to maintain between 45-65% humidity within your grow room.
You should also be wary of over watering your plant during the vegetative stage, to avoid any issues arising ensure that you only water your plant when the top layer of soil is completely dry and not just damp.
Importance Of Air Circulation
It is also important to note that air circulation is also vital, ensure that you keep a steady flow of fresh air moving through your grow room as this is vital to keeping your plants healthy.
A rotating fan is perfect for this however you must make sure that you have an exit area where the air can escape and fresh air can replenish the room. The fans will also help your plans grow stronger stems when blowing on them, make sure the fan is not constantly pointed on them though.
Conclusion
Remember, every plant is unique, so remain flexible and responsive to your cannabis plants’ needs for the best results.
You should aim you allow your cannabis plants to get in around 3-4 weeks of strong vegetative growth, as an approximate your plant should be around 18-20 inches tall and with around 5 leaf branches.
All of these are just rough estimates though as some strains need longer growth periods in order for them to reach these heights. You always want to ensure your plant is healthy before ending the vegetative stage, it needs to go on to reward you with a monster yield of potent buds for your personal enjoyment.
For more information click here – https://dutch-passion.com/en/blog/cannabis-growth-stages-breakdown-n1015
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